Summary

In Chapter 17: “The Hollow Sea,” Cordelia heads home wet after her near-death encounter in the river. She has a special moment with Matthew, who confesses he has done something terrible he cannot speak of to anyone. They are interrupted in his confession by Sona, who brings Cordelia inside. Soon after, James arrives, bringing Cortana. They are left alone to talk about his recent heartbreak, but James confesses he mostly feels guilt for not being more heartbroken. They are about to allude to their kiss in the Whispering Room when Alastair barges in, accusing James of leading on his sister. James and Alastair argue, bringing up their school days and Alastair’s bullying, as well as something mysterious about Alastair sacrificing everything for his sister. When James leaves angrily, Cordelia asks Alastair what he meant: she learns that Elias Carstairs is an alcoholic, which...